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Thursday, August 21, 2008

Arsenal have snapped up Mikael Silvestre from Manchester United for an undisclosed fee.

The French defender was sidelined for much of last season due to injury before returning to action in March.

He has been linked with a move away from Old Trafford this summer and the likes of Roma and Bordeaux have both expressed an interest.

A number of Premier League clubs including Manchester City have also been connected with Silvestre but United have now allowed him to join fierce rivals Arsenal.

Silvestre signed for United from Internazionale in 1999 and made almost 250 appearances for the club.

He will now look to rediscover his best form at Emirates Stadium and challenge Gael Clichy for a place at left-back after signing a two-year deal with the Gunners.

Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger said:

“We have a strong squad but a young squad and Mikael’s versatility, experience and calibre will provide the extra depth we need to reinforce our challenge for honours this season. His defensive adaptability will serve us well and it’s a big plus that Mikael has top level experience and a great understanding of football in the Premier League.”

Mikael will join up with his team-mates immediately and will wear shirt number 18.